Students with SEN and ILBD in Vocational Education: Conceptual Frameworks and Statistical Data
Abstract
The aim of the study is to provide an overview of the presence of students with special educational needs (SEN) and those struggling with integration, learning and behavioural difficulties (ILBD) in the Hungarian vocational education system. This will be discussed through an analytical review of the historical context and key concepts relevant to the topic (disability, special educational needs, integration, learning and behavioral difficulties, integration and inclusion), and by available educational statistics.
In the 2022/23 academic year, the proportion of students with SEN in vocational education is 6.2%, while the proportion of students with ILBD is 5.9%. Both SEN and ILBD students show variations in terms of gender, class, region, providers and sectors. The percentage of SEN students lags behind the national average in areas with the highest proportion of disadvantaged students. This raises questions about the capacity of the support system, diagnostic procedures, and equal access to special education and developmental support.
The study highlights that for a comprehensive exploration of the situation of SEN and ILBD students participating in vocational or general education institutions and for establishing cross-sectoral, nationwide interventions, it is necessary to collectively manage and utilize educational statistics.